Discharge Instructions for Rhinoplasty

You had a surgical procedure called rhinoplasty, which changes the structure and shape of the nose. Here’s what you need to know after this procedure.

What to expect

  • Bleeding may occur after surgery. It should stop in about 4 to 7 days.

  • Swelling may occur around your outer nose. It should resolve over the next 1 to 2 weeks.

  • Expect your nose to be blocked during the first week after surgery. This is caused by blood, mucus, and swelling inside the nose. There may be packing in place for a few days after surgery that will make it hard to breathe through the nose.

  • Dark coloration or bruising may appear around the eyes. It should resolve over the next 1 to 2 weeks.

Nose care

  • Avoid blowing your nose for 1 week(s).

  • Don't insert any objects, such as cotton swabs, in your nose, not even for cleaning.

  • Clean the outer part of the nostrils with hydrogen peroxide. You may apply antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to the outer nostrils.

  • Don't  apply ice to the area unless your healthcare provider says it’s OK.

  • Minimize sun exposure to the nose for at least 12 months. Always use a sunscreen with a high SPF when going out in the sun.

  • Avoid trauma to your nose. Try not to bend over, bump your nose, or roll onto your face while asleep.

  • Don'e wear glasses of any kind or rest anything on your nose for 2 months after surgery.

Other home care

  • Take your medicine exactly as directed.

  • Do not take aspirin unless your healthcare provider says it’s OK.

  • Keep your head elevated when you rest or sleep for 7 days after surgery to keep swelling to a minimum.

  • Try to rest quietly for the next 2 to 3 weeks. Avoid any activity that increases your blood pressure or pulse rate, because this could cause bleeding.

  • You may shower or bathe after surgery, but be careful if you have an external cast on your nose. Casts should remain dry. So before taking a shower, make sure that the water flow does not hit your face. Adjust the showerhead if necessary.

Follow-up

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.

 

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:

  • Increasing pain or severe pain that is not relieved by medicine

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher

  • Yellow or green discharge from the wound

  • Increasing redness around the incision lines

  • Nose bleeding that does not slow down in 4 to 7 days

  • Accidental bump of your nose

« Back to Health Library